Do you notice when people “label” their kids?

Labels are really tricky.

Negative labels such as “lazy” or “forgetful” only encourage more of that behavior.  

Positive labels such as “great athlete” make them fear that their self-worth is tied to performance which they know may not last.  

Instead, talk about positive character traits by saying things like, “You worked hard on that assignment” or “That was so generous to share your lunch.”